Business Card Etiquette

When doing business abroad it is important to understand the local culture. Culture includes areas such as a country’s norms, values, behaviours, food, architecture, fashion and art. However, one area of culture that is important for the international business person is etiquette.

Understanding business etiquette allows you to feel comfortable in your dealings with foreign friends, colleagues, customers or clients. Knowing what to do and say in the right places will help build trust and open lines of communication.

One aspect of etiquette that is of great importance internationally is the exchanging of business cards.

Unlike in North America or Europe where the business card has little meaning other than a convenient form of capturing essential personal details, in other parts of the world the business card has very different meanings.

For example, in Japan the business card is viewed as a representation of the owner. Therefore proper business etiquette demands one treats the business card with respect and honour.

Below we have provided you with a few examples of international business card exchange etiquette that may help you on your business trips abroad.

General Business Card Etiquette Tips:

• Business cards are an internationally recognised means of presenting personal contact details, so ensure you have a plentiful supply.
  

• Demonstrating good business etiquette is merely a means of presenting yourself as best you can. Failure to adhere to foreign business etiquette does not always have disastrous consequences.
  

• When travelling abroad for business it is advisable to have one side of your business card translated into the appropriate language.
  

• Business cards are generally exchanged at the beginning of or at the end of an initial meeting.
  

• Good business etiquette requires you present the card so the recipient’s language is face up.
  

• Make a point of studying any business card, commenting on it and clarifying information before putting it away.
  

 Neil Payne

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